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DACs and bass response?

I'm auditioning dacs in my system. One (COS) was way to analytical, overall, but had very tight bass. Another (Aqua La Voce) is what some would describe as "musical"  and sounds  terrific in all aspects except bass. My cdp alone does better in that regard. I have monitors and no subs. Can I expect that dacs that are hyper-detailed will also offer tighter bass as a rule?
stuartk
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
However, if a device passes the J-test with perfect results then one can only conclude that all distortion spuriae including any jitter of any sort are all below the noise floor.

This assumes that the DAC has excellent HF response and transient response.  If it doesn't, the spuriae will be masked, filtered.

Take the same source to another DAC that has better HF and transient response and you might see more spuriae.  I think it depends on the DAC, which it should not.  DAC analog circuits should not be part of the measurement IMO.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
It’s hard to believe that a DAC designer wouldn’t use effective caps in their design.

It is, but I would not have had a lucrative modding business for 10 years if it was not the case.

I trust my ears also.  I have to because measurements just don't cut it IME.  A good audio designer must rely on both measurements and their ears.  I cringe when I read about someone starting out in this industry and thinks they can navigate on measurements alone.  I recently read this on DIY forum...

Steve N.

Empirical Audio


georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
stuartk DACs and bass response? Aqua La Voce

The Aqua La Voce uses the R2R Multibit PCM1704, a killer D/A converter especially in the bass. Used by Naim555, LinnCD12, ML39 ect all which have killer bass.
  
The La Voce I/V stage after the 1704 should be fine and the output buffers should be fine, all that is left is the cheap blue coupling Cap. As I pictured before, or even better go direct coupled.

Cheers George
stuartk OP
2,825 posts
 
@georgehifi: And with the right cables, I discovered it had been there, all along!  
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Stuartk,
Interesting, changing cables resolved the bass issue. Are you referring to the digital, power cable or interconnect? I’ve heard the Aqua Hifi  Formula DAC and was very impressed. I’m sure you’re hearing excellent sound with your DAC. Congratulations.
Charles
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